Riding can be thrilling but it comes with unique risks that demand attention. If you ride in Indiana, understanding how many motorcycle crashes happen is essential to staying safe. At Blackburn Romey, we know firsthand how devastating these accidents can be, from life-altering injuries to significant financial burdens. That’s why this blog looks closely at common causes of motorcycle crashes, who is liable in these situations, and what steps you need to take if you’re involved in a collision. Being informed can make all the difference in protecting yourself on the road, whether it’s reckless drivers, poor road conditions, or vehicle defects.
While freeing and exhilarating, motorcycles do not have the same protections as automobiles. Without seat belts, airbags, or the rigidity of a car, motorcyclists are much more vulnerable to the dangers of the road. This makes them much more likely to be injured or killed in the event of an accident. Let’s examine some of the most significant reasons motorcycle accidents are so common.
Motorcycles are smaller and more challenging to see than cars, especially in blind spots. They can easily go unnoticed when drivers merge lanes, turn, or overtake, leading to dangerous and sometimes fatal collisions. Poor weather or low-light conditions worsen visibility, increasing the risks for motorcyclists.
Motorcycles are built for speed, and their power often tempts riders to push limits. Excessive speeding reduces reaction times and increases the likelihood of losing control during sudden maneuvers. Reckless riding, such as weaving between cars or ignoring traffic rules, only compounds the risks. Additionally, other drivers often misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle, which can result in failure to yield or other serious accidents. These factors make speeding and reckless behavior significant causes of motorcycle crashes.
To prevent accidents, it’s essential to understand specific scenarios where crashes commonly happen to motorcyclists.
Intersections are hotspot areas for motorcycle accidents. According to Indiana Code Sec. 9-21-8-30, vehicles turning left at intersections must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. However, failure to spot a motorcycle or misjudging its speed often results in collisions.
When approaching an intersection, stay vigilant and assume drivers haven’t seen you. Defensive driving could make the difference between an avoidable accident and a significant injury.
Uneven pavement, slippery roads, potholes, or debris can spell disaster for motorcyclists. Unlike cars, motorcycles are more affected by sudden changes on the road. Rain, snow, and fog further heighten these risks by reducing visibility and traction.
It’s crucial to check road conditions before heading out and to plan your route accordingly. Slowing down and steering carefully around hazards can also prevent crashes.
Impaired or distracted driving by motorcyclists or other vehicle drivers is one of the most common causes of accidents. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, distracted driving includes texting, eating, or engaging with a GPS while on the road. This behavior significantly increases the risk of crashes because it limits reaction time and attention.
Defensive driving is key for motorcyclists. Assume that other drivers may not be paying full attention to the road and maintain safe distances. Never ride under the influence.
Determining liability can vary depending on the circumstances. However, each case requires analyzing the actions of all parties involved and external factors that may have contributed to the crash.
If a driver negligently causes an accident with another vehicle, the burden of proving negligence is upon the injured person making the claim. It could be failure to yield, speeding, running the red light, or driving while distracted. Blackburn Romey can present evidence in the form of witness accounts, traffic cam photographs, and police reports to prove negligence and recover riders their fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and loss of property.
Dangerous road conditions can sometimes place fault on government agencies responsible for road maintenance. Severe potholes, improper signage, or construction debris that result in a motorcycle crash could make governmental negligence a contributing factor. However, making such claims requires swift legal action and evidence collection, such as photographs of the scene and documentation of prior complaints about road hazards. Expert testimony may also be crucial to building a strong case. There are special time limitations when making a claim against a governmental entity, making swift action to hire legal counsel extremely important.
Experiencing a motorcycle crash is jarring, but knowing the proper steps to protect yourself legally and financially can help.
Navigating a motorcycle accident claim alone can be overwhelming. An attorney from Blackburn Romey can help you by negotiating with insurance companies, collecting evidence, and ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Indiana’s laws around compensation can be complex, but our team is here to guide you.
Severe motorcycle injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, can limit your ability to work long-term. If you cannot return to your livelihood, you may be eligible for disability benefits. A lawyer can help assess your eligibility and fight for the compensation you need to secure your future.
Motorcycle accidents can have profound physical, emotional, and financial effects. At Blackburn Romey, we are dedicated to fighting for Indiana motorcyclists. Contact us today for a free consultation and secure the compensation you deserve.
Blackburn Romey founding partner Tom Blackburn graduated with honors receiving a degree from Indiana University at the Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Initiating his legal career in 1977, he has been active in practicing law and currently serves as a member of the Indiana State Bar Association on the Ethics and Advertising Committees, the American Bar Association, the American Association for Justice, as a board member at the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, and as an appointed member of the Executive Committee for the State of Indiana for the National Trial Lawyers Association.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Tom Blackburn, who has more than 47 years of legal experience, including over 39 years specializing as a personal injury attorney.
